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ing to the backs of the men's necks, as if eyes were gently touching them, but no arrows flew from the forests, which pressed closer and closer to the road as they traveled north and then west into Clwyd. Sir Guy made no further attempt to remonstrate with his mistress, merely thanking God when she permitted the troop to stop and wait for dawn before they climbed the mountain trails. |
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It must be true, he remarked to himself, that God helps those who help themselves. It was Lady Alinor's favorite saying, and it seemed to work every time for her. Not only had they come scatheless through the forest tracks and over the mountain passes but, when a large troop came galloping toward them in the near dark of the following evening, it was led by Lord Llewelyn himself. Guy remembered his momentary panic, but he was proud of the fact that he had not displayed it. He had shouted back a warning to the men, then spurred his tired horse forward so that his mailed body was between Lady Alinor and the oncoming riders. |
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Even as he went through the motions of making ready to fight, Sir Guy's panic had been subsiding. He was recalling another conversation with his mistress, when he pointed out that Wales was a large, wild place. How were they to find Lord Llewelyn? he had asked. Months could be wasted pursuing that will-o-the-wisp through the forestsas others had discovered. Alinor was not much in the mood for laughter, but she had smiled at her young escort. |
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"Do not be a fool. Lord Llewelyn will come to us. Have you not felt the eyes on your back? Do you think a troop of this size can move through Wales without news of it coming to him? Where he was, I do not know, but I will wager your years of service owed to me as to where he will be. He will be at Llanrwst when we come thereor he will meet us on the road." |
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An imperious voice called a question, and Lady Alinor replied, identifying herself. The leading rider dis- |
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